The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

3.5.1.65 Child-related qualification for PP - foster care

Summary

Refer to 1.1.P.415 for the qualification criteria for PP for foster carers and the following issues relating to qualification that are of particular relevance to foster carers:

legal responsibility for the child
care of the child and the duration of care
making a determination about qualification for payment
shared care, and
risks of incorrect payment and fraud.

A foster carer is subject to the same qualification criteria that applies to all other PP claimants. This includes the requirement that the foster carer has at least one PP child (1.1.P.340).

Since being the principal carer of a child is one of the criteria for having a PP child, it follows that where a foster carer meets the definition of principal carer, and the other specific eligibility criteria for PP, the child will be a PP child of the person.

Policy reference: SS Guide 1.1.P.415 Principal carer - foster care

Last reviewed: 3 July 2023

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